Toure plans to see out his career with Man City

Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure wants to stay at the Premier League champions for as long as possible after a turbulent off-season.

Published

30 July 2014

Toure's future in Manchester was cast into doubt at the end of City's successful 2013-14 Premier League campaign, when the Ivorian accused the club of lacking respect after he claimed they failed to wish him a happy birthday.

The Ivory Coast international also publicly criticised City for refusing a request for compassionate leave to visit his dying brother before the World Cup, though the club denied the accusation.

However, the 31-year-old, who scored 20 goals in 35 league appearances last season, seems certain to end his career at Etihad Stadium.

"It was not a case of me wanting to leave the club. I stayed quiet, I believe that is the right way, and at the end of the day it's my decision," Toure told City's official website.

"Everyone is very positive. Last year was a good season and this year I hope and think it will be amazing, because all the big teams are signing good players."

Toure - absent from City's International Champions Cup victory over Milan on Sunday - added: "The matter is closed now. The most important thing was to try to focus again.

"Last season was quite difficult at first but in the end it was fantastic – two trophies. This year we'll try to do our best, we are looking to do well in the Champions League. It will be very open."

City have remaining pre-season fixtures against Liverpool and Olympiacos in the United States before returning to England for the FA Community Shield and their Premier League opener at Newcastle United on August 17.